Shin-Etsu Chemical Unveils Heat-Shrinkable Silicone Rubber Tubing for Busbar Protection

Shin-Etsu Chemical has introduced the ST-OR Type heat-shrinkable silicone rubber tubing, marking a pioneering advancement in the industry for busbar covering. Busbars, which are conductive metallic strips made from materials like copper or aluminum, are crucial for power distribution and connection. Their use has expanded beyond switchboards and control panels to include electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs), where their performance is critical.

Given that busbars operate under high currents and voltages, they require robust protection through materials such as tape or tubing. The demands for busbars in EVs and HEVs are even more stringent, necessitating insulating components with advanced properties like superior electrical insulation and heat resistance. Shin-Etsu Chemical’s newly developed ST-OR Type tubing addresses these needs effectively.

The ST-OR Type tubing features several notable advantages. Firstly, its silicone material ensures exceptional electrical insulation with a high dielectric strength of 28 kV/mm, providing reliable protection against electrical faults. Additionally, the tubing is engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, maintaining stable performance within a range of −40°C to +200°C, making it suitable for harsh environments. Its bright orange outer surface enhances visibility, making it an effective choice for busbar insulation and a viable alternative to high-voltage cables. Furthermore, the tubing preserves the inherent flexibility of silicone rubber even after heat shrinking, ensuring ease of installation and durability. For specialized applications, the ST-TC-1 Type variant offers outstanding thermal conductivity (1.0 W/m·K) combined with excellent electrical insulation, making it particularly useful for thermal interface applications. This feature allows it to efficiently cover heating components and transfer heat to casings, contributing to overall system performance and reliability. These attributes collectively position the ST-OR Type tubing as a versatile and high-performance solution for a variety of industrial insulation needs.

The tubing’s heat-shrinkable nature simplifies the process of applying a silicone rubber cover with outstanding electrical and heat resistance. By just covering an object with the tubing and heating it, users can achieve effective insulation and protection. This innovation promises to enhance the reliability of power distribution systems and streamline the busbar production process, reducing labor and time.

Through the development and provision of high-value-added silicone products, Shin-Etsu Chemical leverages its extensive technological expertise to address customer challenges and support the creation of a sustainable society.

Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., established on September 16, 1926, is a leading chemical company based in Japan. With a substantial capital of 119,419 million yen, Shin-Etsu Chemical employs a consolidated workforce of 26,004 employees. Known for its innovative contributions to the chemical industry, the company continues to leverage its extensive resources and expertise to drive advancements across various sectors.